Scotland, with its rugged landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is becoming a top choice for pet-lovers seeking a memorable getaway this autumn and winter.
Recent data from VisitScotland highlights a growing trend in pet-friendly tourism, making the country an ideal destination for travelers wanting to explore with their furry companions.
As dog ownership in the UK continues to rise, with nearly 28% of adults owning a dog, Scotland is catering to this expanding market with a variety of pet-friendly accommodations and experiences.
The VisitScotland UK Resident Holiday Sentiment Tracker reveals that one in ten visitors planning a trip to Scotland later this year intends to bring their pets along. For those already residing in Scotland, the trend is even more pronounced, with one in seven planning domestic trips that include their pets.
Top Pet-Friendly Destinations in Scotland
For those looking to enjoy a luxurious yet pet-friendly experience, Scotland offers a range of options. Cromlix, a country house hotel in Dunblane, provides the perfect retreat for both humans and their four-legged friends.
Recently named Best Hotel Experience 2023 at the Scottish Thistle Awards, Cromlix offers a “Very Important Pup” package, which includes a dog bed, a welcome hamper, and even a turndown treat. The hotel is set within 34 acres of secluded woodlands and landscaped gardens, offering plenty of space for dogs to roam.
Another great option is the Nevis Range in Fort William, home to the UK’s only mountain gondola. Here, dogs can ride the gondola for free and enjoy scenic walks with their owners. The surrounding area offers a variety of picturesque viewpoints and dog-friendly establishments like the Pinemarten Café and Snowgoose Restaurant, ensuring a warm welcome for both pets and their owners.
For a taste of the coast, Portobello Beach in Edinburgh offers a dog’s paradise with its expansive sandy shores and nearby promenade lined with dog-friendly cafés. Just a short drive away, the NTS property Newhailes in Musselburgh provides another great spot for a leisurely walk, along with dog-friendly events and markets.
A Growing Market for Pet-Friendly Travel
Pet-friendly tourism is not only a growing trend but also a lucrative one. An estimated £350 million is spent annually in Scotland by visitors traveling with their dogs, reflecting the economic impact of this niche market. With 106 million domestic visits recorded in 2023, generating £7 billion in visitor spending, Scotland’s tourism industry is embracing the potential of pet-friendly travel.
Jacqui Souter, Senior Marketing Insight Manager at VisitScotland, noted the importance of accommodating pets in travel plans: “Pets are a huge part of family life nowadays, so it’s important that visitors can include them in their holiday plans. It’s really encouraging to see the growing trend of dog owners considering exploring Scotland at different times of the year. This presents an exciting opportunity for the Scottish tourism and events industry to highlight their dog-friendly products, amenities, and offerings to potential visitors.”
Real-Life Adventures in Scotland
For many dog owners, Scotland’s pet-friendly offerings have become an essential part of their travel experiences. Samantha Livingstone, originally from South Africa and now residing in West Lothian, has made it her mission to explore Scotland with her rescue dog, Sven. Since adopting Sven in 2021, she has taken him on numerous adventures, including along the NC500. Samantha and her husband are planning several upcoming trips with Sven, including visits to Aberdeenshire, Aviemore, and Ayr.
Samantha shared her perspective on traveling with Sven: “As a rescue, we know Sven may not have had the best life, so we love taking him on as many adventures as possible. Exploring Scotland with Sven has given us even more reason to discover dog-friendly destinations and enjoy the beautiful scenery and endless countryside walks. We prefer traveling during the autumn and winter months, not only for the cost savings but also to avoid the heat for Sven.”
With a range of dog-friendly accommodations and activities, Scotland is well-positioned to become a top destination for pet-loving travelers this autumn and winter. Whether it’s a luxurious stay at a country house hotel, a coastal retreat, or a mountain adventure, Scotland offers something for every traveler and their furry companion.
